Adaptive and Para-rowing Programs

Rowing is a sport especially suited to para-athletes because it can be adapted to different levels of ability. Those with visual impairments or physical or cognitive disabilities can all excel as rowers. Row New York’s safe and supportive adaptive and para-rowing program provides land-based and on-water workouts for athletes who wish to row for recreation, rehabilitation, and competition. Athletes begin the program learning the basics of rowing on ergometers, then move to on-water rowing on stable barges, and for competitive athletes, to rowing shells fitted with pontoons.

Row New York’s adaptive and para-rowing mission is to empower people with disabilities to achieve their personal competitive and health goals through the rigorous discipline of rowing by building a community of trust, motivation, and high expectations.

All adaptive and para-rowing activities are free of charge and take place on the calm waters of Meadow Lake in Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens.

SCHOOL DAY ADAPTIVE
This program provides 16 weeks of land-based and on-water rowing activities to middle school students with disabilities.

RECREATIONAL ADAPTIVE
For novice rowers looking to learn a new activity or for experienced rowers who enjoy rowing for fitness and recreation.

COMPETITIVE PARA-ROWING
Our competitive team is for para-athletes who wish to compete, and represent Row New York at indoor competitions on ergometers and at on-water regattas in racing shells.

Feedback from our adaptive and para-rowing athletes:

“I really love rowing. I like the idea of being an athlete! I like that it gives me a challenge and a goal. I like that it’s different – all my friends do wheelchair basketball and racing – not many people know about rowing.”

“Rowing helps my brain – it keeps me focused. I love it and I get to make new friends. Rowing also make my hands and wrists stronger.”